President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has made sweeping changes in Nigeria’s military leadership, appointing General Olufemi Oluyede as the new Chief of Defence Staff (CDS) to replace General Christopher Musa.
In the major shake-up announced on Friday, Tinubu also approved the appointments of Major-General W. Shaibu as the new Chief of Army Staff, Air Vice Marshal S.K. Aneke as the Chief of Air Staff, and Rear Admiral I. Abbas as the Chief of Naval Staff.
However, Major-General E.A.P. Undiendeye will continue to serve as the Chief of Defence Intelligence.
The announcement was contained in a statement signed by the Special Adviser to the President on Media and Public Communication, Sunday Dare, who said the development underscores the Federal Government’s commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s national security architecture.
“The President, Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, expresses profound appreciation to the outgoing Chief of Defence Staff, General Christopher Musa, and the other Service Chiefs for their patriotic service and leadership,” the statement read.
Tinubu charged the newly appointed Service Chiefs to justify the confidence reposed in them, urging them to further enhance professionalism, vigilance, and unity within the Armed Forces of Nigeria.
All appointments take immediate effect, according to the statement.
The reshuffle marks Tinubu’s second major overhaul of the military since assuming office in May 2023 and signals a renewed effort to tackle insecurity across the country, including insurgency, banditry, and oil theft.
General Olufemi Oluyede, the new CDS, is expected to bring fresh strategic direction to the armed forces amid persistent security challenges nationwide.